I can answer this purely from a materials safety standpoint, but I don't know anything about manuf.'s recommendations or specs for these gadgets.

I suspect these don't get hot enough to ignite paper. Google says that the flashpoint of paraffin candle waxes - the temp at which it could ignite IF an ignition source was present - is in the range of 400F. Paper is at least that high. One would assume the unit does not heat up anywhere near the flash point of the wax. I don't know what they actually use for wax so this is just a guess.

I'm betting the instructions say not to put anything other than approved scented wax in there, just to cover themselves.

Hi, thanks - FYI here's an updated URL of the [horrific] happenings:

http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/electronics/msg0100472529433.html
So maybe this thread should move to the latter thread.

Also FYI the wax-melt tart-wamer is identical to the below warmer on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Cream-Tart-Warmer-Flower-Design/dp/B00LI54L0G

Scentsy sells (or at least used to) little "liners" that lay on the bottom of the dish with tabs that stick out to the sides. When the wax is cooled, simply lift out the liner with the tab. I don't use them. It's a waste of money imo. I do it one of two ways. Let the wax cool and then with a butter knife, slice the wax down the middle and start to go around the edge with the knife. Each side will pop out effortlessly. Or, holding the base of the plug-in warmer, dump the hot wax in the trash and use a paper towel to wipe out the dish. Both are extremely simple. But, this is Scensty wax. Not all waxes are created equal. In the beginning when I was trying to go the cheap route, I bought WM (Better Homes and Garden) wax cubes. They don't come out as easy. You have to chip them out.

ps...did you pay $33 for that plug in warmer? :o A much superior product, with life time warranty, is $20.

This is horrific to you? I would like to live in your world for a bit. Wow.

I'm curious if you tried the parchment paper method because I am having the same thought! If parchment paper can withstand the oven up to 420 degrees, it should hold up to a wax warmer.